Clark Art Institute

Art museum · Williamstown

Clark Art Institute

Art museum · Williamstown

2

225 South St, Williamstown, MA 01267

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Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null
Clark Art Institute by null

Highlights

Set on 140 scenic acres, The Clark dazzles with a stunning array of art from the 19th century, inviting strolls through trails and cozy café breaks.  

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225 South St, Williamstown, MA 01267 Get directions

clarkart.edu
@clarkart

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225 South St, Williamstown, MA 01267 Get directions

+1 413 458 2303
clarkart.edu
@clarkart
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@the_clark

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Jul 12, 2025

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"The Clark has 120 acres that fan out from the museum, with meadows scored by walking trails." - Travel + Leisure Editors

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"EV-friendly museum with 140-acre grounds, featuring works like Friends or Foes? (The Scout) by Frederic Remington." - Travel + Leisure Editors

How to Take an EV Road Trip Through Massachusetts' Berkshires
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Paul Nakazawa

Google
One of the top cultural gems of Massachusetts - wonderful art, architecture, landscape; educational, research and conference facilities. For visitors to The Berkshires, a worthwhile destination to spend a day. Something here for all ages. Handicapped accessible. Carts available to transport visitors around the extensive campus (for those not wanting or able to walk). PS - one of the world’s finest collections of Renoir paintings on display.

Stella Lee

Google
This review is for the outdoor space only, which is super dog friendly! Such a nice place to chill and stroll with your dog (or not). Highly recommend checking out the “reflecting pool” at the Clark Center. The Nan path has no steps, and takes about 10~15 mins. Note that the Woodland trail from the Nan path was closed at the time we visited. Cannot wait to be back to check out the museum and other trails!

Lucas ルーカス

Google
Amazing museum packed full with old European art by artists such as Monet. The buildings the museum made up of beautiful, with modern design and amazing architecture. The grounds are great as well. One of the best parts was the staff. Ellen was amazing! I will definitely be returning here. Highly recommended!

estefania form

Google
The museum is beautiful! The Renoir collection is spectacular, but the cafeteria don't have good options for lunch. All the personal very kind. I enjoyed my visit.

Yana Rolnik

Google
Very nice collection of quality art in a very nice setting. While I expected to see a variety of Impressionism and post impressionism, I didn't expect to see Goya or Botticelli. Pleasant surprise. Loved outdoor sitting next to the museum cafe.

C. Wang

Google
I spent two full days here. Wonderful museum.

James Flanigan

Google
What a find. Your ticket good for two days. I didn't know before I got there at 3:30...they close at five. Came back the next day to take it all in. 4 hours at least is needed with no rest. They also have a small Cafe with plenty of seating. Beautiful design interior and exterior grounds with trails. I picked an on-off rainy day just lucky, but the exterior has so much to offer in the sunshine. Don't pass this up.

James Kelly

Google
Another interesting visit to this amazing facility. We became members a few visits ago. Their permanent collections and visiting exhibits will delight. Sitting outside by the reflecting pool or walking on their extensive grounds during Fall Foliage season should not be missed. We have returned many times to the area and have been able to enjoy this property and exhibits. On the latest visit we were inspired and in awe of the glass exhibits especially the Corning Museum of Glass special exhibit. Don’t miss this opportunity to see it.

Jennifer C.

Yelp
I make it a point to visit the Clark Art Institute at least once a year, and it never fails to impress. Each summer, I look forward to exploring their new exhibits, as well as spending time among their remarkable permanent collection, which is predominantly focused on Impressionism. As a long-time admirer of Renoir and Monet, there's something truly special about being surrounded by some of my favorite works of art in such a serene environment. The layout of the museum is both accessible and thoughtfully designed, making it easy to navigate from one exhibit to another. The combination of indoor galleries and outdoor spaces creates a harmonious experience. I particularly enjoy the outdoor walking trails that wind through the beautifully landscaped grounds. They offer a lovely opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the area, and the paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll between viewing the exhibits. One of my favorite features of the Clark is the tranquil reflecting pool. It provides a peaceful spot to rest and contemplate the art I've just seen, allowing for a moment of reflection that enhances the overall experience. It's a perfect place to pause, take a breath, and appreciate the surroundings. Additionally, the on-site café deserves a mention for serving delicious food. After exploring the galleries, it's a treat to enjoy a meal while overlooking the stunning views. The menu offers a variety of options that cater to different tastes, making it an ideal spot to recharge before heading back to the art. Overall, a visit to the Clark Art Institute is always worth the day trip. The combination of exceptional art, beautiful grounds, and a welcoming atmosphere makes for an enriching experience. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful getaway, the Clark is a gem that should not be missed. I can't wait for my next visit!

SaraJane M.

Yelp
Wow! Wish I lived closer to explore this wonderful Museum frequently. I love how they took the original old building and added glassed walkways connecting the newer part . The architecture is stunning the variety of the collection. If you're in the area, you absolutely have to set aside a day to explore .

Phil C.

Yelp
This may be the best museum in the state and definitely gives MFA a run for its money. Yes, it's not as large and diverse (art-wise) as the aforementioned Boston museum, but the addition of natural beauty and hiking trails gives this museum an advantage. Since I love impressionists, this museum was my jam. However, there's a decent amount of other European and American art. There's a more hidden collection of American furniture and glass in the library. Speaking of, if you like books and libraries, the Williams College art library is housed here. It has that mid-modern design and has a decent amount of books. The gift shop has the museum books for sale, but heavily discounted when I came. The cafe was okay, with the usual higher prices. I had a chicken sandwich, which was passable. The museum fare is about equivalent to ones around Boston. However, when I came, admission was for two days. So I could come back the next day when I show my receipt. We did some hiking around the grounds the first day, did some museum-ing towards the end of the first day, and then finished up the next day.

Bill S.

Yelp
First visit here, and wow, what a beautiful, high-quality art museum it is! We spent several hours admiring the galleries and their displays of some amazing fine arts works. We're fans of impressionism, and the Monets, Renoirs and others are just dazzling. The crowds aren't huge -- at least not on this say -- so we could get close to the hanging works, study them and step back to admire them all without having to contend with many others trying to do the same. The galleries cover a wealth (literally!) of fine art and sculpture; their collections are outstanding. The museum has beautiful grounds, too, though it was pouring rain when we visited and force us to stay inside. that wasn't a chore, however, and it afforded us more reasons to savor what the Clark has to offer (including its well-stocked gift shop). There's a large parking lot and a very nice cafe downstairs. What a treasure!

Colleen E.

Yelp
Really enjoyed my visit here this week. The staff is friendly and helpful. I really enjoyed the tour I did with one of the docents. You definitely could spend all day here as there is so much to see. The food in the cafe is excellent, I recommend getting a ham and cheese panini. If it's a nice day, be sure to go for a walk on one of their trails.

Pat K.

Yelp
"Fumee d' Ambergris" !!! I fell in love with John Singer Sargent's painting and travelled here just for this. There are two other paintings of his on either side.

Sydney M.

Yelp
I was amazed to see Degas Little Dancer in Williamstown, MA. I really enjoyed the collection. I think you need an hour or two here. On a nice day there is a beautiful reflection pool and trails to explore They also offer a wonderful student discount that all students should take advantage of

Becky K.

Yelp
There are lots of nice trails throughout the woods behind the museum. You can use AllTrails for a map or the museum's website has a map of the trails as well.

Thus S.

Yelp
One of the greatest small museums I the country.Has expanded and always has special exhibits that are great like current Lethiere. Curated by art historians.Plus fabulous permanent collection begun by the Clarks. Excellent research library with helpful people. Worth a visit anytime!

Carolyn B.

Yelp
Simply an amazing museum with a world class collection. So comfortable. Catch a lecture on the expansive campus. Great architecture and planning. A bit expensive, though.

Merle L.

Yelp
Amazing find in North Adams, MA. From Impressionists to classic Americana to glass and sculpture, all in a beautiful modern structure with lovely landscaping. Definitely worth a visit.

Kyung Hwa K.

Yelp
I've had the chance to visit many art museums, ranging from small local ones to large ones in NYC. Among them all, The Clark stands out as the most memorable museum I've ever been to. The art collection is truly elegant, and the outdoor scenery is simply magnificent. Anyone visiting this area should definitely stop by this museum.

Gretchen B.

Yelp
What a fantastic museum. I loved the Edvard Munch Trembling Earth exhibit they had running when I went. The other parts of the Clark's collection are wonderful too. I love Renoir and they had many Renoir pieces. I highly recommend visiting this gem of a museum in the Berkshires.

Marysa N.

Yelp
We were visiting the Berkshires and our friends recommended the Clark. There is plenty of parking and the building is nicely designed. There is a lovely cafe and store, and nice restrooms. The art is wonderfully displayed, with my favorite being the impressionist art room. There are a variety of exhibits and displays. You can also explore outdoors, so we hope to return in warmer weather. There are trails, seating areas, and a reflecting pool. We had a very nice experience and hope to return soon!

Soomi W.

Yelp
What an absolute gem! I was surprised to find such a great collection of art in the middle of nowhere in MA. My brother just graduated from Williams College, which is right next door, so we decided to check out the Clark Art Institute while visiting him. It was actually bigger than I expected and we toured for about 2 hours or so. I really enjoyed the room with the Renoir paintings. I highly recommend checking it out!

Eliza N.

Yelp
Loved our visit to The Clark. Worth the trip from Boston. Stayed overnight to make it a relaxing visit. Incredible collection of paintings, sculptures and rooms dedicated to old fine silver and antique glass. All with a backdrop of a country setting with open hills, fields and views of a skate pond w skaters. Made me feel we are looking at a Cahoon painting. 5 stars for the gift shop where I purchased some books. Nice selection of gift items, jewelry, house and clothing. All laid out in an appealing thoughtful way.

Peter F.

Yelp
It's proximity to Williams College in Williamstown, MA, the village beautiful, and it's proximity to the five-college area

Norman I.

Yelp
World class art museum in a small town. Well worth a visit if you are nearby. If you ever studied art history, you will find many familiar pictures and sculptures on display.

Annie C.

Yelp
This is a outdoor tour of the Clark art institute, which was during a trip to the Berkshires. The reflecting pool was one of the highlights of the museum, as it is nice to enjoy a coffee while sitting outside and overlooking the greenery. We went up the hill to look for the sculptures outside, but due to the season they were in the middle of being disassembled already. Unfortunately there were also no cow sightings. Fall in the Berkshires is gorgeous, in the Clark Art Museum has a nice view on its hilltop. We're also able to see some of the artwork inside through the windows, but chose not to go in as we had limited time to enjoy the whole museum. Would definitely recommend this is one of the highlights of Williamstown.

Robert B.

Yelp
Members! Myself and my family frequently visit the Clark. We could spend hours looking at the wonderful art displayed throughout the buildings. My wife gave me the gift of membership to the Clark for our anniversary. Best gift ever.

Martin H.

Yelp
Small and accessible; top of the shelf collection especially of glass; beautiful, walkable grounds.

Juliet K.

Yelp
This review is for the extensive grounds of The Clark. During a post-vaccination trip to the Berkshires my family visited the Clark Art Institute outdoor exhibition called groundworks. Be ready to walk a long distance. Wear outdoor shoes. Maybe bring some water if it's hot. Wear sunscreen. If you aren't going inside the museum you can bring your dog, but keep it on-leash and be prepared to be approached by cows. Yes cows. The art was cool but the friendly cows were definitely the highlight of our trip. The reflecting pool wasn't so bad either. It is beautiful and serene with the sound of water gently cascading into the lower pool. A gorgeous spot for a picnic or a meditation session if you're into that sort of thing.

Andy D.

Yelp
Simply the best. Inside. Outside. Food. Permanent collection has a lot of impressionist art. There is currently a Rodin exhibit. Try to take the guided tour. You'll learn some very interesting things about Rodin.

Michelle A.

Yelp
The Clark family wanted to keep their amazing collection safe from nuclear attack, which means we have world class art tucked in a mountainside. Always a pleasure to revisit the Renoirs, Cezannes and Pissarros -- and to sit with a Turner! The traveling shows are always excellent, well mounted. Topped off with a tasty cafe and gorgeous gift shop!

Joy D.

Yelp
A gorgeous building holding incredible art from artists we've all heard of. I could spend a full day here and still come back again and again. The massive glass in the walkways lets in tons of light and provides a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape. The gift shop is equally lovely. There are a nice variety of art installations and a feeling of privacy within the smaller rooms to enjoy the pieces.

Karin C.

Yelp
The Munch exhibit is excellent. I love going back and visiting some of my favorite paintings each time I go. I love the grounds, getting something to eat and sitting by the reflecting pool, with the hills beyond. The gift shop is lovely. Parking is free! The last time I went I enjoyed a free painting kit, and sat down to paint my surroundings! They also offered a free drawing class the next day, which I wasn't able to take advantage of, but I had a wonderful time.

Sean M.

Yelp
An incredible museum tucked away in the Berkshire mountains a small town where you wouldn't be necessarily looking for a world-class museum. Over the last 50 years I've been going here both when I lived in Western Massachusetts and even when I came to visit California when I live there. I just went to see the Posada graphic arts exhibit which was compact and beautifully curated. And then I noticed an exhibit on Rodin marbled and castings. Outside of some of the large major museums like the metropolitan I don't think I've seen a more beautifully curated and well written exhibit. Superb. Their regular collection as someone most beautiful pre-raphaelite paintings that are a treat for the eye. Don't pass through the Berkshires without going here

Kara M.

Yelp
When I lived in Albany, I always wanted to get over to Williamstown and visit The Clark. I was home for a bit and wanted to go on a day trip with my friend. The Clark is about a 1 hour drive from the Capital District. This is a great rainy day activity! Full disclaimer, I'm not an art connoisseur, but I enjoy visiting the occasional museum. I've enjoyed artsy spots like The Broad in Los Angeles and NYC's mammoth Metropolitan Museum of Art (which has something for everyone), but some art museums don't aways interest me enough to visit. Parking was easy and it wasn't too crowded, even though we were visiting on a weekend day. I thought the building itself was very nice and modern looking. It was a bit cool on the day we went, but I noticed some nice walking trails on the property. I love the beautiful Adirondack chairs that are situated outside the museum, this would be a nice place to sit if you need a break from touring the museum. The building where we entered had a cafe and coat room should you need either one. The museum does feature a large collection of European art. I think my favorite part was the Impressionist paintings, I'm more drawn to the lighter colors. I really enjoyed the oil paintings that were done on a copper panel. I also appreciated checking out the fine china and religious art. I love how when you wander through the museum you catch glimpses of the outdoors. There was an interesting exhibit downstairs in the main gallery about the history of the museum. This is located not far from the idyllic and scenic Williams College. Wow, what a gorgeous campus! I would recommend taking some time to explore the cute little town by the college! We only drove through since it was a cold day, but the shops and eateries looked adorable. Parking at the museum should be easy, they had a fairly large lot. You may wish to also consider a visit to the Norman Rockwell Museum, which is also in the scenic Berkshires. Rockwell museum is Americana style, but I love the stories he tells in his paintings and I think it's very relatable to most of us.

Paul L.

Yelp
The Hill of Buddha, in northern Japan, features a seated Buddha set into a massive stone cylinder underground. Only the head of the Buddha can be seen from ground-level. It's an incredibly bold but tranquil design by Tadao Ando, the same architect responsible for The Clark's addition in 2014. I haven't been here since before that time. Ando's design pivoted The Clark from small traditional museum shut off from the elements to one that embraces the gorgeous landscape of The Berkshires. Nature is a crucial part of the experience. Trails surround the museum. Open the glass doors of the simple entrance and you are confronted with a massive rectangular pool visible through another set of glass doors. To the immediate left is the light-filled lobby. Concrete, stone, wood, and glass throughout this addition emphasize integration with the natural setting. Unwinding yourself to a state of relaxation is the intention and it makes it all the better to appreciate the stellar collection.

M J.

Yelp
This museum is shockingly good. If you are anywhere nearby, and you like art museums, you'll be pleasantly surprised.

Cam E.

Yelp
The Clark Art institute, surrounded by beautiful grounds, houses a beautiful collection of Old Masters paintings of Italian, Dutch and Flemish origin. Artist's works by Botticelli, Piero della Francesca, Renoir, and many 19th century impressionists, Degas, Manet, Monet, Gauguin, plus American artists, John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, are here to name a few. The buildings are surrounded by beautifully landscaped hiking trails and a reflecting pool. Definitely worth a visit when in the Berkshires.

Annie M.

Yelp
We went with our 5 year old and 8 year old girls. We started out taking a walk up the hill then along the fence towards the reflecting pool. The grounds are stunning. Unlike anything we've seen with all of the extra space. Plenty of tables and chairs outside for chatting or enjoying the scenery. At the check-in we received a special sketch book and scavenger hunt fir the kids. The girls loved it! The art inside was amazing. Everyone we encountered was helpful. The museum shop had so many great books about art for kids. This museum is a true gem.

Dan L.

Yelp
Perfect size - not too big or small. Great works of art, beautiful grounds and great trails that make a nice visit even if you don't set foot inside the museum! There are some works of art on the grounds and they're working on adding more. During the pandemic, they're selling timebound tickets to keep the number of people manageable, and there are signs posted of each room's occupancy limit. They were fairly well followed by the visitors. There were many staff members around and they will remind people if they forget to put their masks on.

Benjamin M.

Yelp
The Clark is a nice art museum. I am not a fan of art museums in general (I much prefer history museums) but I had a good time here. Everything was well laid out, chairs/benches to sit and reflect (or rest) were amply provided, the heating/cooling was just right for a warm day, the art was arranged without crowding, and the staff were friendly. They have many works from famous painters that I have actually heard of, which was nice. They also had a section devoted to silverware, pottery, and glassworks. Those things I really liked, especially the blown and pressed/stamped glass. Admittedly, I much preferred the outside portions with the gardens, ponds, reflecting pools, and nature trails. Apparently there are even cows to be seen, but we were too tired at the end to take the long trail to discover them. The price ($20) is a little steep if you aren't into art, or are bringing a group. But, I can see that it isn't going to waste. Everything was prestine, which costs a penny or two. I had a good time here.

Maricar T.

Yelp
Had a wonderful time at The Clark on a weekend visit. We chiefly came for the Tadao Ando building but was pleasantly surprised that a museum in the mountains would have a vast collection of paintings that can rival museums in major cities. I highly recommend to art enthusiasts.

Chrysanthia K.

Yelp
I need art museums in my life and if the Clark wasn't 30 minutes away, I wouldn't be able to live in such a rural area. It's collection is fairly comprehensive with the European and American masters. I'd like to see them attract a more regular diverse audience.

Firefly B.

Yelp
One of the gallery staff said this, and it's true: the Clark is a beautiful jewelry box in the middle of the country rolling hills; you don't expect it but it really is amazing if you've never seen it. If you're in the area, you should go and you won't be sorry. This review is not about the art, because there is no question about its value. Rather, this review is about the way the museum treats the public. This museum is so beautiful, there is so much to appreciate. But it's one of those institutions that seems to think the museum is above the actual people who visit. It does very little to extend a hand of generosity to visitors. This not being generous is my gripe. So few informational signs in favor of the museum's design. From the extremely small text link on its homepage to order tickets to the inscrutable parking (there are parallel lots like anywhere else, why do we need teenagers directing us in new directions, why can't a person just self-park for heaven's sake... why? Because the designers decided not to allow helpful signs...) to the unmarked inscrutable gap in the wall where one enters, to the unavailability of maps and the lack of basic orientation info about the museum, to the lack of signage to help the public make their way around the museum... it's downright unfriendly, unwelcoming, ungracious in its way. Humanness and generosity were missing - which are table stakes at museums. You know what was really telling - the Clarks' story, which is a great story, was relegated to the basement. The basement. For shame, museum designers. The Clarks deserve a prolific place in the museum, what an absolute insult to these people that made the museum possible. Their history should be on display near the admissions area. The Clarks are the prime movers of this story the museum should be championing instead of brushing under the rug. For basic info about the Clarks, I actually used Wikipedia to learn about them on my cell phone while standing in a gallery. Can you imagine? In short, this is a museum where beautiful inhuman design has won and living breathing people have come in second place. The Mass MOCA is quite nearby and serves as a stark comparison. Lots of information is available there. The MOCA conveys itself as a generous place. You know what the MOCA said when I got my ticket? "You're all set. The museum is yours for the whole day. Enjoy!" The Clark is frosty. The Clark is an important museum, and seems to want to make itself known as such. To the Clark's leadership: think of your aspirations. Which great museums in today's world act as you do? None. About 20 years ago they began to extend a generous hand to the public because they understood the return. The Clark's institutional ego is stuck in time and is working against its legacy. It's so easy to remedy. Extend a hand. Please consider it.

Lisa E.

Yelp
I've loved the Clark with all my heart until this visit, certainly my last. I'm not sure who rearranged the exhibits, but in my opinion they have made a disorganized mish mosh of a fabulous museum. Specifically, banishing Rodin's Tiny Dancer age 14 to a small room at the end of a long hallway that hosts other bronze works and one Degas ballet classic, but no where showcased as it was when it was in the center of the large bright room. In this large space, I would imagine, large groups and especially school children could circle the little statue adorned with tule skirt and silk ribbon while discussing as a group. In this back room, she remains almost as an after thought, cramped and lonely. My old favorite, Singer Sargent's " Smoke of Ambergris", once took my breath away before the revision of the museum when you walked in the main door where it greeted you, seemingly enormous...now simply hanging amongst a room full of art it seems half it size and half as dramatic. The freshly painted steel grey color that was chosen to coat the walls is both dark and distracting. I don't remember this color before.Each work of art is displayed on a depressing, morbid palette. The structure itself is astounding with it's thoughtful use of space, clean lines and ability to bring the outdoors, in. The sleek stone and abundance glass is memorable. The outdoor sitting area and reflection pool is pleasant to simply spend time relaxing next to. The grass there seems extra soft and inviting... sitting under the tree there, watching the water and visitors, is a highlight of my visit. If I return anytime school, it will be to enjoy this outdoor space.

Emily H.

Yelp
I've been here about 20 times, and I have to say that this museum is now the best it has ever been. Although they have a crazy confusing parking lot filled with underpaid art majors pointing you in the right direction, they have all kinds of new buildings to house their amazing art. NEW: --There is a new building by a Japanese artist way up the hill. --And several steep hiking trails cutting through the gorgeous mountain. --And a whole new building for traveling exhibits (just saw the Van Gogh that had lots of his early work paired with many of his original influences). --And a new outdoor café so you can stop and talk about what you've seen before you get to your art over-saturation point. --They are still constructing a place for visiting lecturers. OLD: --And then they have the tried and true. The older collection includes Degas, Sargent, Renoir, Homer, and a bunch more. --Old but not forgotten: I will say that they used to have an amazing bookstore and gift shop that has been overly slimmed down. Two steps forward... --They used to offer free entry to all Berkshire residents in the winter months. Sadly, this will no longer be true starting Fall 2015. --Mr. Clark said if the building burned down, the important thing was to save Renoir's Onions, so definitely check it out and see if you agree. Given only one afternoon, I'd probably choose Mass MOCA over Clark, but both are worth a visit. Note that it's $20 minimum for adults. (Free for students). Finally,

Jennifer C.

Yelp
Fantastic museum! Expansive collection. We love visiting a couple times per year to see the exhibits and stroll through the wonderfully beautiful building. Love this place. The staff is knowledgeable and have great stories to share about the history of the place and it's founders. Students are free which is a great way to educate and show support for education. We will be back!

Aimee G.

Yelp
The visiting Prado art exhibit was overshadowed by the permanent collection at The Clark Institute. You read that sentence correctly. It's not a typo. Yes, I mean that Prado. I haven't enjoyed a remote museum this much since my introduction to the Barnes Foundation in suburban Philadelphia. Like the Barnes, The Clark Institute has a room of impressionist paintings that will make art historians everywhere cry. Renoir, Rodin, Sargent, and Degas works hit you in fast succession during your visit. Let's be honest. Your basic art history 101 class will sustain you through most domestic and international museum visits. Curators often write art descriptions to the lowest common denominator. It's rare to come away with new artistic insights. This eclectic collection will surprise most visitors. For example, walking through a certain room of the museum is like taking an introductory Mariology class. There were some paintings that I observed for the very first time. Another non-portrait Sargent painting depicts a mundane, intimate exchange in a Venice alley. Can you tell that my list of examples could go on forever? It's worth noting that the bucolic setting doesn't hurt this museum. One can sit by the pond and observe the beauty of the Berkshires. More active visitors can walk the trails and interact with the outdoor exhibits. The cows which supposedly wander free were elsewhere during my visit. I did want to pet one of the resident cows.

Joe C.

Yelp
Who were the Clarks? They were two extremely wealthy people who purchased numerous European paintings at the turn the century. Sterling Clark was heir to the famous Singer sewing machine fortune. The Clarks built this wonderful museum to showcase their personal collection. And wow what a collection it is. Those two must have had more money than God because they didn't purchase obscure works of art. They purchased all the big names; Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, Renoir, Monet, Pissarro, Degas, Sargent, Turner, and Homer. Yes they were great admirers of European Impressionism. If you've never been to the Musée d'Orsay or of you're just a fan of Impressionism then "The Clark" is for you. Both the museum and its grounds make for a pleasant afternoon. People are encouraged to go outside, have a picnic, and hike the network of trails. There's art, in one shape form or another, scattered all throughout the beautiful 140 acre campus. I would have liked to explore more outdoors but was running a little late and had two other museums waiting for me later that day. That's right, there are a total of three popular art museums in this region; The Clark, Williams College Museum of Art, and MassMoCa. I got the combo ticket deal which knocks $6 bucks off the total price for all three. Because the Williams College Museum of Art is actually free they offer 20% off anything in their museum gift shop. Overall I thought it was worth it (and I actually did purchase something in the Williams gift shop).

Gwyn C.

Yelp
A fantastic museum tucked in the Berkshires. Not only do they feature world-renowned art with friendly and knowledgeable docents, the architecture and landscaping are absolutely gorgeous. You can access the reflecting pools behind the museum without paying admission, as well as the hiking trails and Stone Hill (featuring the new art installation, "Teaching A Cow To Draw"--complete with cows); both of these are favorite spots of Williams students. The galleries are extensive, but doable in one day depending on how much you like to linger. Free admission for students!

Maureen F.

Yelp
I haven't been here in many years. They've done a phenomenal job in upgrading. If you love art, then you need to come here!

Matt W.

Yelp
This is a right-sized museum, in that it's in that sweet spot that it's big enough to have decent hours and amenities and a very nice collection, but not so big or centrally-located that it is ever that crowded even during its busiest season. With the recent additions and expansion of the grounds, the little complex is starting to offer reasons for return visits other than the impressionist masters. I don't know that the architecture of the expansion is horribly successful, though, and there are some badly thought-out bits. Notably, the ADA compliance, which may be technically legal but it's not great. The giant doors are hard to handle, and the access buttons for automated doors aren't marked properly nor are they in the right place - the arc of the door would interfere with a chair, especially a full body chair, when the button is pressed from one. (This extends to odd choices like the triangular carpet piece jutting out onto the wood floor on the lower level.) It's full on high-art museumish and they didn't think out the flow very well; moving from the old to the new is like traveling in a space station air lock. The curation on the collection is also curiously out of date, very much in the traditional formalistic great art vein, and without the appropriate modern take. I'll give one example that bugged the hell out of me. In one gallery are two works, both attributed to (different) unknown artists. One is a portrait of a young man, holding what looks like a pen. It is titled "Portrait of an Artist". Another is a larger, more complete and complex work, showing a woman sketching (actually doing art) a landscape which is rendered in detail in oil. She, however, is identified as "Woman Sketching". I hope I don't have to explain the oddity of that difference in titling and the explanation on the labels. There's a lot more I could get into about the traditional organization of the collection (reorganized or not) and its limitations in the main old house space, but it does have quite a number of impressionist masterpieces and a variety of first through fourth rate practitioners of it. The other eras represented in the collection are spotty but there's enough that it's likely there will be something of interest for you. But, bottom line, for a regional smaller museum, it's pretty solid, although it's not a world class destination museum by any means. Worth a day, and if you plan that day right you can enjoy the hiking trails, which are nice and should probably get their own write-up.

Mike H.

Yelp
Been meaning to comment for awhile. Expansion is a dismal piece of architecture. Walking from the parking lot, all it needs is some razor wire along the tops of the walls to complete the impression of entering a prison. I get the desire for minimalism, but when you need people to direct you to the entrance and other areas, there is a problem. Went yesterday to see a play reading in the Auditorium. No signs. Outside of building labeled Research Center (which from a distance could be any corporate office building anywhere). Door says Library. Not too useful. Would have been nice good will, PR if attendees were allowed to view the two small, special exhibits adjacent to the Library. Instead, very zealous guards kept a lookout for wristbands and swept down on those without them. Some of the Picasso special exhibit pieces interesting. But, given that it was supposed to be about his collaborations, would have liked to have seen/read much more about the processes. Play was good (thanks WTF). Trails around grounds well worth a stroll.

M. M.

Yelp
One of the best private collection of arts. Absolutely worth the travel (2,5 hrs from Cambridge by Rt 2 West). Established by one of the heirs to the Singer sewing machine fortune Robert Sterling Clark (1877-1956). Great landscape, nice little town, wonderful college. The museum itself is not big but is one of my favorite. They have very good exhibitions every summer. As far as I remember they are closing early on Sundays and closed on Monday. Recommend!

Roger M.

Yelp
The Clark just gets better and better. The recent renovation is outstanding. But, the new exhibits are very well done. Today, I saw Van Gogh and Nature. What a treat. I experienced and learned so much. The Clark is a world class museum in a glorious setting. Highly recommended.

Carrie B.

Yelp
GET YOURSELF TO THE CLARK, STAT: FREE ADMISSION THROUGH THE END OF 2014!! Gorgeous art museum in a tranquil setting with an impressive collection, especially for a small town rural art museum (though to be clear, the Clark is not some little community museum; it's a national-caliber art museum). The impressionist and American collections were especially excellent, with particularly large numbers of works by Renoir, Homer, and Sargent. A few Degas bronze sculptures really spoke to me. That said, it's not the Met and it's not the MFA, but the collection is still pretty darn impressive - and to think a lot of it came from one family! The new (2014) Tadao Ando-designed building is really beautiful, in a Japanese minimalist kind of way, but it works with the original adjacent museum building. Plan to take some time to sit out by the reflecting pool and to walk the trails on the grounds. Combined with a visit to the nearby Mass Museum of Contemporary Art, the Clark is well worth a trip from Boston or NYC.